Earlier this fall, we asked NatureBridge staff members who and what they're grateful for this season. Many of them named fellow NatureBridge co-workers! Here are a few of their responses:

Sixth grader Cade Sutton and his school are from Colorado, and during our week together the students were getting really stoked about Pacific Northwest tree identification. Recognizing their interest, on our challenge hike day up Mt. Storm King I offered recitations of a couple tree-themed poems I had written to those who wanted to hear. Cade was particularly excited about these and continued his curiosity and engagement in learning about the trees around him... On Cade's turn, he shared that what rocked about his day was "being able to express myself through poetry." Teary eyed, it warmed my heart to know he not only had the courage and confidence to share his work with our trail group, but also that he had an opportunity to follow his passions at NatureBridge. Experiences like this remind me how our programs can make a lasting impact, or are made to last—just like the cedar tree of Cade's poetic affection. 

The fall season has been full of sunshiny days, beautiful sunsets and soaring hawks here at NatureBridge Golden Gate. When I think about what I’m most grateful for, I reflect on having the world's best classroom—the national parks. Although I am currently based at our Golden Gate campus, I’ve had the opportunity to teach at and/or visit all of our beautiful campuses throughout the country this year. The NatureBridge community is full of brilliant and welcoming individuals, and I am so thankful for their joint efforts to ensure all students and participants feel a sense of belonging within our programs and the national parks!